CO 151 surface treatment project complete east of Ignacio

News Release

Nov. 20, 2025 - Southwestern Colorado - 13 miles of newly paved roadway offers a smoother safer drive
The new asphalt road surface with a fresh coat of reflective paint striping on CO 151 between Ignacio and Chimney Rock National Monument.
The new asphalt road surface with a fresh coat of reflective paint striping on CO 151 between Ignacio and Chimney Rock National Monument.

Archuleta County — The Colorado Department of Transportation, in partnership with Elam Construction, will complete the resurfacing and culvert improvement project along CO Highway 151, east of Ignacio, just before the winter holiday season. The project improved approximately 13 miles of rural roadway from the La Plata/Archuleta county line to Old Coal Mine Road (Mile Points 12.8 to 26). The project began Feb.17, 2025 and crews are finalizing punch list items this week ahead of the Nov. 21 completion date.

“By improving the condition of this rural route, we are enhancing the quality of life for all highway users that depend on this route as a connection to critical services and points of interests in outlying communities,” said Transportation Director Julie Constan. "The new pavement will increase the longevity and durability of the road surface and the culvert improvements will mitigate the chance of flood related hazards.”

In addition to removal of the old asphalt and a newly paved surface, the project made improvements to six culverts including repairing one culvert, cleaning out two culverts and replacing three culverts throughout the project limit. Improvements and replacement of culverts will accommodate higher accumulations of rainfall and lower the risks associated with flooding to maintain safe driving conditions.

Additional safety features include rumble strip installation, road sign replacement, fresh striping and guardrail updates. New guardrails were installed that are 31 inches high and designed to get new safety standard requirements. The higher railing will help veering vehicles remain on the road more effectively, making the highway safer for traveling public.

Know Before You Go

Travelers are urged to “know before you go.” Gather information about weather forecasts and anticipated travel impacts and current road conditions prior to hitting the road. CDOT resources include:

Remember: Slow For The Cone Zone

The following tips are to help you stay safe while traveling through maintenance and construction work zones.

  • Do not speed in work zones. Obey the posted speed limits.
  • Stay Alert! Expect the unexpected.
  • Watch for workers. Drive with caution.
  • Don't change lanes unnecessarily.
  • Avoid using mobile devices such as phones while driving in work zones.
  • Turn on headlights so that workers and other drivers can see you.
  • Be especially alert at night while driving in work zones.
  • Expect delays, especially during peak travel times.
  • Allow ample space between you and the car in front of you.
  • Anticipate lane shifts and merge when directed to do so.
  • Be patient!

Download the COtrip App!

The new free COtrip Planner mobile app was designed to meet the growing trend of information on mobile and tablet devices for the traveling public. The COtrip Planner app provides statewide, real-time traffic information, and works on mobile devices that operate on the iOS and Android platforms. Visit the Google Play Store (Android devices) or the Apple Store (iOS devices) to download!